Can dogs eat cheese?

As with all dairy products, moderation is paramount. Cheese is non-toxic, but you should avoid giving it to dogs who are prone to upset tummys or have special dietery requirements. Cheese contains protein and calcium, but is also very high in fat. For dogs that have trouble keeping their weight down, cheese is not a good treat and they will gain a lot of weight if they consume it regularly. Cheese should not be a major part of a dog's diet, but when used in small amounts it makes an excellent training treat.

Risks

Like humans, dogs are often attracted to dairy products such as milk and cheese, like us they find them tasty and they cannot resist the smell and taste. While the calcium and protein content is generally a good thing for your dog, there are risks regarding the amount of fat, and if your dog suffers from a lactose intolerance, an upset tummy, diarrhoea and or flatulence.

How much can my dog eat?

Cheese is not dangerous for the dog's health, but it is often poorly digested by animals with a sensitive digestion system. To limit the risks, choose fresh cheese, and avoid blue cheeses such as stilton as dogs are particulalry sensitve to the fungus used to make these (roquefortine C). Keep to natural cheeses, flavoured or cheese that contains preservatives can also be difficult to digest.

Tip: If you are struggling to get your dog to take some medication, consider placing the tablet in a small amount of mozzarella - the soft, stretchy properties of this cheese is perfect for concealing the pill.

Of course the important thing is to maintain a balanced diet, if you are looking for treats, consider healthier ones that your dog will love, that are zero calories, such as fruit and veg: banana , strawberry , raspberry , pineapple , watermelon , zucchini , etc. These are also excellent sources of vitamins for your pet.

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PetKnowledge.co.uk is not a veterinary service, if you are concerned for your pet's welfare, you should always seek assistance from your qualified vet.

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